Attachment-Focused EMDR
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain and nervous system process experiences that feel “stuck” or unresolved.
While traditional talk therapy can help you understand patterns intellectually, EMDR works more directly with how difficult experiences are stored cognitively and in the body.
EMDR may be integrated into ongoing therapy, used as a focused treatment approach, or incorporated alongside therapy with another provider.*
*If you are currently working with another provider, it’s recommended that you discuss this with them prior to beginning EMDR.
What is Attachment-Focused EMDR?
Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR), developed by Laurel Parnell, is a relational and integrative approach to trauma therapy.
It builds on traditional EMDR by integrating attachment theory, nervous system awareness, and the therapeutic relationship to support deeper, more lasting change. This approach is often especially helpful for complex or relational trauma.
Rather than following a rigid protocol, the work is tailored to you—allowing space to move at a pace that feels supportive, manageable, and grounded.
Who This Approach May Be Helpful For
This work is often a good fit if you’ve done therapy before and gained insight, but still find yourself feeling stuck in certain patterns or emotional responses.
You might notice:
Feeling emotionally triggered or reactive in relationships
Anxiety or overwhelm that feels disproportionate or difficult to regulate
A persistent sense of self-doubt, shame, or not feeling “enough”
The emotional impact of trauma, medical experiences, or fertility-related stress
Often, these patterns are rooted more deeply in how past experiences were stored in your nervous system and shaped your sense of safety, connection, and self-worth.
Attachment-Focused EMDR helps support change at this deeper level, so healing feels not only intellectual, but more fully integrated and lasting.
What You May Begin to Notice
Over time, many clients begin to experience a shift—not just in how they think, but in how they feel and respond.
You may notice:
Less emotional reactivity and overwhelm
More self-compassion
Increased confidence and trust in yourself
Feeling more grounded, present, and connected in relationships
Rather than feeling pulled back into old patterns, there is often a growing sense of flexibility and resilience.
Getting Started
If you’re curious whether this approach might be a good fit, a complimentary 15-minute consultation allows us to discuss questions you may have and get a sense of whether this approach feels aligned.